Air conditioners, like all things, break down sooner or later. Smaller issues are easily fixed, but there are times when it’s better to throw the whole unit out and get a replacement.
The Golden Rule of $5,000
Most professional HVAC technicians follow the same rule regarding this decision. Multiply the expected repair cost by the unit’s age. If the number goes above $5,000, then the best thing to do is just get a new unit. For example, a $600 repair times an age of 10 years equals $6,000, so replacement is a good choice. Anything below $5,000 means you might be okay with a repair job.
Fewer Repairs Equal More Time
If your AC’s serving you well and has a minor problem, then repairs will do just fine. Small problems include drainage issues, thermostat malfunctions, localized electrical issues, or airflow problems. If, however, you’re experiencing multiple breakdowns over the course of the year, particularly during peak season, you should save yourself the needless repair bills and get a new unit.
It Had a Good Run, But It’s Getting Old
If your AC unit is 15 years old or more, then a significant breakdown is best addressed with a new air conditioner. If you have an AC built before 2020, see if it uses R22 refrigerant. Because it’s known to cause environmental damage, R22 is no longer manufactured in the United States. Replace your R22-filled AC before a significant break, or your professional HVAC technician won’t be able to fix serious issues like coolant leaks. If it uses R-410A or R-458A refrigerant, you’ll be just fine.
Older units also tend to lose efficiency over time, and that means higher energy bills as they use more electricity doing the same job. If you’ve noticed a spike in your energy bills, it’s a good time to look at a replacement.
A Warranty Warranting Repairs
If your unit is still under warranty, that offsets many repair costs, so check if your unit is still covered. Most units have five-year warranties, but some people opt for 15-year coverage and long-term peace of mind. If you don’t have the printed warranty available, look for it online.
In short, cost, complexity, and efficiency are the three major factors when deciding to repair or replace your air conditioner. Another factor, however, is comfort. If your AC just isn’t keeping your home cool or dry, that’s another point in the replacement column. Ultimately, an expert technician will make the call based on what they see. If you live in Houston, TX or a surrounding area and need AC replacement services, make your first call to Village Plumbing, Air & Electric.
